UNOCACE

UNOCACE (Union of Small-Scale Cacao Growers’ Organizations of Ecuador)
UNOCACE is a second-tier cooperative union founded in 1999 to represent and strengthen the economic and social development of small-scale cacao farmers in Ecuador. The organization brings together around 1,900 to 2,000 producers, organized into 20 to 25 grassroots associations across 11 provinces of the country. Together, they cultivate approximately 6,300 hectares of fine flavour Nacional cacao, a variety recognized for its exceptional quality and aroma.
🌍 Mission and Vision
UNOCACE’s mission is to produce and market fine flavour Nacional cacao and its derivatives under the highest quality standards, while meeting international market demands with efficiency, transparency, and environmental and social responsibility.
✅ Certifications
UNOCACE’s products carry multiple internationally recognized certifications, including:
Organic (Ecuador, EU, USDA, Bio Suisse, Canada)
Fairtrade (FLO)
SPP (Small Producers’ Symbol)
Gold Estándar
Naturland
These standards ensure products are cultivated under agroecological systems, without deforestation, and with a strong commitment to farmer well-being.
🌱 Sustainability and Innovation
UNOCACE has become a regional leader in regenerative agroforestry, promoting:
Diversified income sources for farmers
Elimination of agrochemical use
Increased productivity and biodiversity
Enhanced carbon capture and ecosystem resilience
The cooperative also implements innovative programs such as parcel monitoring, organic bioinput production, and technical training as part of the FINCA project, aimed at supporting climate-resilient and profitable cacao farming systems.